Renovate-miscellaneous

Ear and Tongue Pulls

These pulls won’t appeal to everyone, as they’re rather odd and not at all what you’d find at a local kitchen and bath store. However, for those of us that like edgier options when it comes to drawer and cabinet hardware, Malia Jensen’s Ear and Tongue Pulls are delightfully different, enough so to consider spending far more than necessary simply to outfit a bathroom’s vanity drawers with ears. Or tongues.(more…)

Peter Fehrentz’s Renovated Flat

If you subscribe to Dwell magazine, you probably already saw this flat in Berlin, but I’d like to point out that a few risks does wonders for a small space. Not everyone has the guts to go with pink/rose cabinets and a dark grey tile backsplash, yet Mr. Fehrentz’s 646-square-foot apartment proves it works well alongside other subdued colors. Flip through the slideshow over at Dwell and I’m 99% sure you’ll agree. Maybe you’ll even be able to make some gutsy changes to your own home.(more…)

Hardiman Street Extension

Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who’s got the most spatial tricks of them all? Not only is this extension by ODR architects in Melourne, Australia, superbly done (just take a look at the before picture), but they’ve also employed mirrors in various areas to increase visual space and light. Case in point, the kitchen backsplash and on walls- both of which trick the eye into seeing double the space. And, if you’ve got any bad memories of 80’s interiors that used mirrors in an unfortunate way, this place will have you seeing shiny, reflective surfaces in an entirely new light. A few more photos below from Architectism.(more…)

U-Socket USB Wall Charger

It was only a matter of time for something like this to come out. The U-Socket adds two additional USB ports next to your traditional power outlets, providing a charging station for your electronic devices without having to turn your computer on.

Bocci 22 Outlets

I’m a little amazed I haven’t posted these before, as it was one the best things at the 2007 ICFF. What’s incredibly frustrating is I remember finding a direct retailer some time ago, but now I can’t remember where…if you know, please include link in comments or email me.

The 22 is a complete suite of electrical wall accessories that challenges the traditional, tired and ubiquitous cover plate concept. Power receptacles, lighting control dimmer switches, on/off switches, telephone and data connections, cable and speaker outlets, etc. may now be mounted flush into drywall or millwork with a new CSA approved utility system that eliminates the need for a cover plate. Switches and power receptacles can now be flush with the surface of the wall and be significantly more visually subtle than ever before.

Roof Hatch

I stumbled upon the blog Building Green on Montrose where they’re tracking the renovation of a 100-year old rowhouse in Philadelphia. Besides being an interesting read, they’re providing some excellent links and references for materials. If you’ve ever thought about a roof hatch/deck, check out their post here.

Houzz (Favs)

I’m addicted to houzz, which is chock-full of home design photos. I’ve started a bltd ideabook that’s not centered on any idea (sorry), it’s just my favorites so far. It looks like it would be a great place to gather and sort your inspiration photos to share with others.